Leptosittaca branickii
The Golden-plumed Parakeet (*Leptosittaca branickii*) is a striking, medium-sized Neotropical parrot, typically measuring 35-38 cm (13.8-15 inches) in length and weighing between 165-175 grams (5.8-6.2 ounces). Its plumage is predominantly a vibrant emerald green, brilliantly offset by its most distinctive field mark: conspicuous golden-yellow tufts covering the ear coverts. This golden coloration often extends as a narrow, though sometimes interrupted, band across the lower cheeks and can oc...
This specialized parakeet inhabits high-altitude montane evergreen forests, particularly cloud forests rich in *Podocarpus* trees. It is typically found between 2,800 and 4,000 meters (9,200-13,100 feet) elevation.
Primarily frugivorous and granivorous, their diet consists mainly of the seeds and fruits of montane forest trees, especially *Podocarpus* species, as well as berries and occasionally flowers and nectar.
Golden-plumed Parakeets are highly social and diurnal, typically active during daylight hours and forming noisy flocks of 10-30 individuals, sometimes up to 100 or more, especially outside the breeding season. They roost communally in tree cavities or dense foliage within the forest canopy. Forag...
The Golden-plumed Parakeet has a disjunct distribution across the Andes mountains of South America, primarily found in three main areas. In southern Colombia, its range extends from the Central Andes (e.g., Cauca, Nariño) into central and northern Ecuador, encompassing both the western and easter...
Vulnerable
- The Golden-plumed Parakeet is the only species in its genus, *Leptosittaca*, making it a unique branch on the parrot family tree. - It is one of the highest-dwelling parrot species globally, regularly found at elevations between 2,800 and 4,000 meters (9,200-13,100 feet) in the Andes. - Its die...